VDB File Extension

What is VDB file?

Files with the VDB extension belong to the category of virus definition files.

What do VDB files contain?

Files with the VDB extension contain signatures of malware, which the antivirus program named Symantec AntiVirus is designed to protect against. These files are commonly used across various industries. Stored in VDB files are the virus definitions detected by the software provider.

How are VDB files utilized?

For antivirus software to effectively protect the user from malicious or dangerous applications, it must first recognize them. This process is based on virus signatures that are stored, among others, in files with the VDB extension. These resources are automatically downloaded by the antivirus software directly from the manufacturer's servers. It's essential to emphasize that only the latest versions of VDB files provide an adequately high level of security. Therefore, modifying the settings for automatic downloads of files with the VDB extension, available in the dedicated software menu, is strongly discouraged.

Programs which support VDB file extension

The following listing features VDB-compatible programs. Files with VDB extension, just like any other file formats, can be found on any operating system. The files in question may be transferred to other devices, be it mobile or stationary, yet not all systems may be capable of properly handling such files.

Updated: 03/27/2024

How to open file with VDB extension?

Being unable to open files with VDB extension can be have various origins. What is important, all common issues related to files with VDB extension can be resolved by the users themselves. The process is quick and doesn’t involve an IT expert. We have prepared a listing of which will help you resolve your problems with VDB files.

Step 1. Download and install Symantec EndPoint Protection

The most common reason for such problems is the lack of proper applications that supports VDB files installed on the system. The most obvious solution is to download and install Symantec EndPoint Protection or one to the listed programs: Norton AntiVirus, Symantec AntiVirus Corporate Edition. On the top of the page a list that contains all programs grouped based on operating systems supported can be found. The safest method of downloading Symantec EndPoint Protection installed is by going to developer’s website () and downloading the software using provided links.

Step 2. Check the version of Symantec EndPoint Protection and update if needed

If the problems with opening VDB files still occur even after installing Symantec EndPoint Protection , it is possible that you have an outdated version of the software. Check the developer’s website whether a newer version of Symantec EndPoint Protection is available. Software developers may implement support for more modern file formats in updated versions of their products. The reason that Symantec EndPoint Protection cannot handle files with VDB may be that the software is outdated. All of the file formats that were handled just fine by the previous versions of given program should be also possible to open using Symantec EndPoint Protection .

Step 3. Associate Symantec Virus Database Format files with Symantec EndPoint Protection

After installing Symantec EndPoint Protection (the most recent version) make sure that it is set as the default application to open VDB files. The process of associating file formats with default application may differ in details depending on platform, but the basic procedure is very similar.

Change the default application in Windows

• Right-click the VDB file and choose Open with option
• Select Choose another app → More apps
• Finally select Look for another app on this PC, point to the folder where Symantec EndPoint Protection is installed, check the Always use this app to open VDB files box and conform your selection by clicking OK button

Change the default application in Mac OS

• By clicking right mouse button on the selected VDB file open the file menu and choose Information
• Open the Open with section by clicking its name
• From the list choose the appropriate program and confirm by clicking Change for all....
• If you followed the previous steps a message should appear: This change will be applied to all files with VDB extension. Next, click the Continue button to finalize the process.

Step 4. Check the VDB for errors

You closely followed the steps listed in points 1-3, but the problem is still present? You should check whether the file is a proper VDB file. Being unable to access the file can be related to various issues.

1. Check the VDB file for viruses or malware

If the file is infected, the malware that resides in the VDB file hinders attempts to open it. Scan the VDB file as well as your computer for malware or viruses. If the scanner detected that the VDB file is unsafe, proceed as instructed by the antivirus program to neutralize the threat.

2. Check whether the file is corrupted or damaged

Did you receive the VDB file in question from a different person? Ask him/her to send it one more time. It is possible that the file has not been properly copied to a data storage and is incomplete and therefore cannot be opened. If the VDB file has been downloaded from the internet only partially, try to redownload it.

3. Verify whether your account has administrative rights

Sometimes in order to access files user need to have administrative privileges. Switch to an account that has required privileges and try opening the Symantec Virus Database Format file again.

4. Check whether your system can handle Symantec EndPoint Protection

If the systems has insufficient resources to open VDB files, try closing all currently running applications and try again.

5. Verify that your operating system and drivers are up to date

Latest versions of programs and drivers may help you solve problems with Symantec Virus Database Format files and ensure security of your device and operating system. Outdated drivers or software may have caused the inability to use a peripheral device needed to handle VDB files.

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